Korean Underground Rap

Korean underground rap stands as a subversive and expressive facet of South Korea's vast music landscape, diverging from the glossy production of K-pop to deliver raw and often introspective lyrical content. This genre embodies a gritty authenticity, with artists like Just Music and BlackNut known for their unfiltered storytelling and sharp social commentary, often set against minimalist or boom-bap beats. Pioneers like yankie and TAKEWON bring a sense of old-school ethos, while the likes of Omega Sapien and Chaboom infuse modern and experimental elements into their tracks. The DIY spirit runs deep in this scene, with artists like lobonabeat! and Tabber crafting distinctive sonic identities, and rappers such as Odee and kitsyojii pushing lyrical boundaries, all contributing to a dynamic, underground culture that embraces the complexities of urban life in South Korea.

LEAN

YANGHONGWON

Single - Released June 7, 2025